Brokenness Before and After Relationship Collapse

Many fathers enter relationships carrying unresolved pain—trauma, insecurities, or past grief. When those relationships fall apart, the damage multiplies, leaving them questioning their identity. In discussions within the movement, Craig and David addressed how personal brokenness shapes these struggles. “We were already cracked; the breakup just shattered us,” David said.

Statistics reveal the depth: 68% of divorced fathers report pre-existing emotional issues, and 33% face worsened mental health post-separation (Journal of Men’s Health, 2024). Losing regular contact with children—75% of whom live primarily with mothers (Pew Research Center, 2024)—intensifies this, stripping away purpose. The movement recognizes that these inner fractures predate court battles but are magnified by them.

Craig added, “We’ve got to face what’s broken inside.” Acknowledging this vulnerability is key. Fathers share experiences to understand their pain’s roots, not just its symptoms. With 43% of U.S. children affected by parental separation (National Center for Health Statistics, 2024), addressing this personal toll is critical for the movement’s focus on holistic recovery.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RScu7c5U3Sw